Intel Public Policy: IP and Patent Reform

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Intel Public Policy: IP and Patent Reform

Policy: IP & Patent Reform Intel depends on sound patent systems worldwide to protect intellectual property (IP) and enable the development and deployment of new technologies. We work to improve the quality and reliability of patents, help new World Trade Organization (WTO) members conform their patent laws to WTO requirements, develop procedures to lower the costs of resolving patent disputes, and ensure that the interests of patent holders and good-faith manufacturers are properly balanced through fair litigation rules.

BackgroundPatent systems are the cornerstone of protection for the rights of innovators, but they also must keep pace with evolving technologies and the changing needs of inventors and producers.

Questionable patents force companies like Intel to divert valuable resources to litigation that might otherwise go toward new product research and development. This diversion of resources imposes an “innovation tax” that increases costs to consumers. Dedicated patent examiners do the best work possible under difficult circumstances, but outmoded procedures, insufficient training, and lack of resources result in a substantial number of problematic patents issued each year.

When problematic patents end up in court, the fairness and efficiency of a country’s litigation rules are a major factor in whether the lawful rights of innovators and the interest of society in deploying new technologies are properly balanced. Intel works closely with policymakers to strengthen the protection of IP and modernize patent systems. In Europe, work is ongoing to develop a European Community patent—a major goal of which is to simplify filing and examination procedures and facilitate the evolution of a common European patent law. In Asia, work is underway in China, India, and other countries to adopt rules governing patentability of inventions that strike the proper balance between the rights of innovators and the interests of society. These worldwide efforts are essential for fostering technology development and achieving commercialization of new technologies.